‘Idiots’ slammed after fireworks set off before devastating fire tears through Dovestone Reservoir
‘Not a beautiful way to pay respect’
Group of youths let off fireworks at Dovestone Reservoir
Youths have been slammed after setting off fireworks on the tinder-dry moors around a reservoir before a huge wildfire blaze broke out last night (July 11).
The Manchester Evening News has seen multiple video clips and images posted to social media. One shows a young woman holding a rocket launcher as a firework explodes out from it on the moors above Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield, near Saddleworth in Oldham.
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One firework then appears to spark a blaze in dry grasses, before a group of bystanders run over to the smoking section of moorland. In another video recorded shortly afterwards, flames can be seen quickly spreading across a hillside at the Saddleworth beauty spot.
It isunderstood youths gathered in tribute to a teenager who tragically lost his life in the reservoir on Friday night (June 10). Karl Holland, 18, was lost his life after getting into difficulties in the water, with his body sadly recovered from the scene later.
But as emergency crews desperately battle to bring the flames under control, the use of fireworks so close to moorland has been condemned as utterly reckless and dangerous by locals.
A helicopter dumps water on the moors(Image: Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News)
One said: “I’m truly sorry for the family mourning their loss, but these idiots need to be prosecuted. What sort of absolute idiot sets off fireworks on a tinder-dry moor in a heatwave?”
Another post on social medai claimed the firefighters who attended the reservoir in the aftermath of Karl’s death were the same crews called back up to the moors to fight the wildfire, which was continuing to rage on Sunday (July 12).
The blaze at Dovestone
“Setting fireworks off on a moor that is very dry from the heat is not a beautiful way to pay respect,” said another post. “It’s extremely dangerous.”
Social media posts show multiple fireworks being let off, with youths pictured running as fires start on the ground.
Youths watch as a firework explodes(Image: UGC)
On Sunday, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) stressed no specific cause has been identified as yet. An investigation to establish a cause was set to begin, a spokesperson confirmed.
In response, the fire service said: “GMFRS continues to urge people not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires or set off fireworks on or near moorland. In the current dry conditions, even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire.”
Fire crews raced to the scene after reports of a moorland blaze around the reservoir at around 8.45pm on Saturday night.
Members of the public have again been told to avoid the area, and those living nearby have been told to keep all windows and doors closed.
Fire crews at the scene
Dramatic images taken by the Manchester Evening News show a helicopter dropping gallons of water onto the burning moorland from above. A fire service spokesperson said on Sunday: “Firefighters remain in attendance, supported by specialist wildfire resources and partner agencies, as they continue to tackle the incident.
“Overnight, crews monitored the fire from safe locations due to challenging terrain and low light conditions. At first light, firefighters returned to the moorland and have continued work to contain the fire and prevent further spread.
“Specialist wildfire units, off-road vehicles and drone support have been deployed to assist operations, with crews focusing on limiting fire spread across the moorland and ridge areas.
Video footage shared on social media shortly before the fire broke out
“United Utilities is supporting the multi-agency response. Firefighters will remain at the scene throughout the day while work continues. Members of the public are asked to avoid the area where possible to allow emergency services and partner agencies to carry out their work safely.”
Greater Manchester Police have been approached for comment.
The Natural Hazards Partnership, a group of government departments and researchers that offers scientific advice and risk assessments for natural disasters, has issued a red alert over an extreme wildfire risk in southern England, the Midlands and part of the north.
The Forestry Commission has also warned that low humidity and strong gusting winds expected on Sunday increase the chances of fires starting – and spreading rapidly. Between 1 January and 6 July this year, 342 wildfires have been recorded.
